
© Ferno-Washington, Inc. / 234-3480-06 / November 2017
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2.4 Using Additional Help
Operating the cot requires a minimum of two trained operators. They
may need additional help when working with heavy loads (patient plus
equipment).
●
Operators stand at the loading end and control end of the cot,
maintain control of the cot, operate the controls, and direct all
helpers.
●
Side helpers may need to walk sideways under some circumstances.
Follow local protocols.
●
Ferno recommends that helpers work in pairs to help maintain cot
balance.
Refer to the chart for suggested placement for operators and helpers.
Helpers
Changing Levels
Rolling
Loading/Unloading
Two
Operators
+
Two
Helpers
Two
Operators
+
Four
Helpers
Keye: O = Operator H = Helper P = Patient
Operator Focus
Directing Helpers
Trained operators position themselves at the
loading end and control end of the cot and
operate the controls. Show helpers where to
stand and how to grasp the cot.
WARNING
Helpers can cause injury. Maintain control of the cot,
operate the controls, and direct all helpers.
Helpers can be injured. Show helpers where to grasp the
cot to avoid pinch points.
Load Capacity
Inspect the cot if the load capacity has
been exceeded. See “Inspecting the Cot”
620 lb
280 kg
44 st
Important
Trained operators position themselves at the loading end
and control end of the cot and operate the controls. Show
helpers where to stand and how to grasp the cot.